CUS T examveda.comNational 1. Odisha was officially established as a separate state on 1" April 1936, making it the first state in ia to be formed on a linguistic basis (during British Era). After independence, Andhra State ‘was first to be formed on linguistic basis, 2. The recently released India Employment Report 2024, the third in a series by the Institute for Human Development in partnership with the Intemational Labour Organization (ILO), examines youth employment challenges in the context of India’s evolving economic, labour market, educational, and skills scenarios over the past two decades. 3. The Indian rapeseed industry has seen a significant rise of 7% compared to last year's output. The significant hike in production is mainly attributed to larger plantation area for the crop. India being the world’s largest vegetable oil importer can see a significant cut down in edible oil imports on account of this development, 4. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSAI) has recently issued a directive calling all E-Commerce companies _—_to appropriately categorize beverage drinks. In its statement, the FSSAI refrains E-Commerce platforms from referring to cereal based, dairy based or malt based beverages as "Energy Based Drinks" or "Health Drinks". Within the perspective of the countries food laws, the directive seeks the correct and relevant definition of "Health Drinks". 5. In December 2023, Tamil Nadu was severely affected by Cyclone Michaung and subsequent floods. The state has filed a suit at the Supreme Court, claiming that the Centre is withholding national disaster relief funds necessary to aid the affected areas 6. The 4" edition of Apollo Hospital's flagship Health of Nation Report, released on World Health Day 2024, has shed light on the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India, The report highlights the need for urgent interventions to combat the rising incidence of cancer, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health issu 7. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced that starting 1" May 2024, shops and establishments in Mumbai that fail to display signboards in Marathi or Devanagari seript will face double property tax. This move comes as part of the BMC’s efforts to enforce the use of Marathi language on signboards, aligning with the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Rules and a recent Supreme Court directive 8. In a significant judgment released recently, the Supreme Court of India recognized the right against adverse effects of climate change as a fundamental right within the ambit of Articles 14 (right to equality) and 21 (right to life) of the Indian Constitution. 9. The Supreme Court of India has stressed the importance of cooperation between the central and state governments in addressing the release of funds for drought relief, The court's remarks came in response to a plea filed by the Karnataka government, urging the Centre to release Rs 35,162 crore for drought relief due to the severe calamity faced by the state, 10. On 9'" April 2024, the Supreme Court of India made a significant ruling regarding the right 10 privacy of election candidates. The decision came in response to a petition filed by Arunachal Pradesh MLA Karikho Kri, challenging a Gauhati High Court decision that declared his election void due to non-disclosure of three vehicles as assets in his affidavit. 11. According to a report on Global Trade Outlook and Statistics released by the World Trade Organi ion (WTO), India has now become the fourth largest exporter of digitally delivered services. The country's share in international trade in services has increased to more than a fifth. 12. The Election Commission of India has eliminated the requirement for Kashmiri migrant voters in Jammu and Udhampur districts of J&KExamveda Step Ahead With Your Career to fill out 'Form M' to vote in the Lok Sabha polls This decision comes after years of demand from displaced voters in the region. 13. The Union government has directed an investigation into organ transplants involving foreign nationals in India due to a significant inerease in the number of such transplants Concerned about potential "commercial dealings in organs transplanted on foreigners, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has called for closer monitoring by state and union territory authorities and actions against hospitals violating rules. 14. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) announced the results of the Civil Services Examination (CSE) for the year 2023 on 16" April 2024. A total of 1,016 candidates were recommended for various prestigious government services such as the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and other central services. 15. Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has announced a significant victory in the state's fight against opium poppy cultivation, with a 60% decrease in the cultivation area over the three-year period from 2021 to 2024, based on a report by the Manipur Remote Sensing Applications Centre (MARSAC). 16. Election Commission of India (ECI) has launched the Saksham app, a mobile application designed to facilitate voter registration and electoral services for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs). The app aims to make the voting process more accessible and inclusive by providing customized services to PwDs, ensuring. their active participation in the democratic process. 17. The department of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services (AH&VS) in Nagaland has successfully contained an outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Kohima. According to Dr. Hang, Deputy Chief Veterinary Officer, the first case of ASF in India was detected around 2020, suspected to have originated from China and entered through Arunachal Pradesh before reaching Nagaland. 18. The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has launched the Longevity India Initiative, a large- scale project aimed at pioneering ageing research in India, The initiative seeks to enhance the understanding of ageing through fundamental and applied research, develop solutions to improve quality of life, and extend human ‘healthspan’ by tackling ageing-related challenges. 19. The Pacific Ring of Fire, also known as the Circum-Pacifie Belt, is a path along the Pacific Ocean characterised by active voleanoes and frequent earthquakes. It is a horseshoe-shaped belt about 40,000 km long and up to about 500 km wide, 20. The Madras High Court has instructed the Tamil Nadu government to implement the Guidelines for Elimination of Corporal Punishment in Schools (GECP) provided by the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR). Justice S. M. Subramaniam issued the directive to the Principal Secretary to Government, School Education Department, while passing interim orders on a petition filed by Kamatchi Shanker Arumugam 21, In the tribal-majority Diphu Lok Sabha constituency of Assam, which went to polls on 26" April 2024, the implementation of Article 244(A) of the Indian Constitution has emerged as a key election promise by candidates across all political parties. This constitutional provision allows for the creation of an autonomous state within Assam, granting greater autonomy to tribal areas.Examveda Step Ahead With Your Career International 1, On 1* April 2024, Romania and Bulgaria partially joined the Schengen Area, Europe's ID- check-free travel zone, This marks a significant step in the two countrie's integration with the European Union (EU). However, land border checks will remain in place due to opposition from Austria, which has long blocked their bid over concerns about illegal migration 2. The countries of Philippines and China are facing a major territorial dispute in the waters of South China Sea. In hindsight, Philippines is gearing up to witness long standing economic tensions with China in coming days. The increasing maritime tensions between the warring countries come as a direct result of President Ferdinand Macros Junior pushing for a more assertive stand on South China Se: 3. Foreign Ministers under NATO arrived at strategic decisions to heighten military support for war-tom Ukraine, This comes as a long-term proposal including a special standing for a 100 billion Euro fund extending for five years. This is seen as a special gestural support for Kyiv. 4. United States and the United Kingdom have recently signed an agreement to work together on developing tests for the most advanced artificial intelligence (AI) models. This agreement is a follow-through on commitments made at the Bletchley Park AI Safety Summit last year. 5. Taiwan was hit by a strong carthquake in the early morning hours of 3" April 2024, measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale. More than 1099 civilians were injured and 10 killed in the quake. Almost 50 workers who were going to a national park in a mini bus were reportedly missing after the attack. 6. South Korea has successfully launched its second domestically developed military spy satellite into orbit. The satellite, carried by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, was launched from an American space centre. This achievement follows the successful launch of South Korea's first military spy satellite in December 2022, which was also carried by a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. 7. The Canadian government has announced a substantial C$2.4 billion ($1.8 billion) investment package to bolster the country’s artificial intelligence (Al) sector. The move comes as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau continues to unveil spending plans ahead of a new budget. 8. General Dimitrios Choupis, the Chief of Greece National Defence General Staff, arrived in India for an official visit on Monday, 8" April 2024. As part of the ceremonial reception, General Choupis received the Guard of Honour at South Block Lawns in Delhi, marking the beginning of his engagements in the country. 9. An Indonesian delegation led by Mochammad Firman Hidayat, Deputy Coordinating Mi Maritime Resources, Coordinati Maritime Affairs and Investment, visited India last week to explore collaboration in various sectors and learn from India's best practices in the mid- day meal scheme and digital inclusion, 10. A 1938 copy of Action Comics No. 1, the comic that introduced Superman to the world, has been sold for a record-setting $6 million at auction. The rare comie was purchased by an anonymous buyer, making it the most expensive comic book ever sold at auction. The previous record was held by another Superman comic, Superman No. 1, which sold privately for $5.3 million in 2022. 11. The seventh round of negotiations for the India-Peru Trade Agreement concluded in New Delhi on 11" April 2024. The discussions aimed at understanding cach other's priorities and concems to ensure mutual respect and benefit. 12, India and the US have recently agreed to reactivate the Indian Ocean Observing System (IndOOS), a network of 36 moored buoys in the high seas aimed at collecting ovean and atmospheric data for weather forecasts. The system fell into neglect during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to gaps in crucial observational data, particularly related to the Indian Ocean Dipole phenomenon and monsoon predictions.Examveda Step Ahead With Your Career 13. Ukraine's parliament has passed a controversial conscription law aimed at replenishing depleted forces as Russia continues its advance. The law requires men aged 18 to 60 to carry military registration documents and mandates registration for military service for men applying for state service abroad. 14, Legislative elections were held in South Korea recently, to clect all 300 members of the National Assembly. The main opposition Democratic Party and its satellite party won a combined 175 seats, while another small liberal opposition party obtained 12 seats. This dealt a major blow to President Yoon Suk Yeo! and his conservative People Power Party, which together won only 108 seats. 15. India has welcomed the Taliban regime's decision to restore private land rights to Afghan Hindus and Sikh minorities as a positive development. The Taliban administration has set up a commission to ensure the return of property rights to the Hindu and Sikh communities, which were seized by warlords during the previous dispensation in Kabul. 16. The recent drone and missile attacks by Iran on Israel mark a significant escalation in the longstanding covert war between the two nations This conflict, which began with an Israeli airstrike on Iran's consulate in Damascus, killing several members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, has now erupted into open aggression, 17. The Arrow Defense System is a comerstone of Israel's multi-layered defense strategy against aerial threats, including ballistic missiles Developed jointly by Israel Aerospace Industries and the U.S, Missile Defense Agency, this system began creation in the late 1980s and has evolved over decades to comprise several variants, notably the Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 systems. 18. Former President Donald Trump is facing a trial involving hush money payments to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. The trial could potentially impact his presidential campaign and keep him tied up in court for weeks. The jury selection process began and could take up to two weeks or longer. Trump was indicted more than a year prior on 34 counts of falsifying business records. 19. Nigeria has become the first country in the world to roll out a new vaccine (MenSCV) recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) to protect against five strains of the meningococcus bacteria. The vaccine is funded by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which supports lower- income countries with routine vaccination against meningitis. 20, India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has imposed restrictions on the export of essential commodities to the Maldives. This action entails that essential items categorized as prohibited or restricted can only be exported through four specific ports in India 21. Musk is expected to announce an investment of $2-$3 billion in the country, primarily for building a new factory. This move marks Tesla's entry into the world’s third-largest auto market, where electric car adoption is still in its nascent stage, 22. North Korea has conducted tests on a new “super-large” warhead designed for the Hwasal-1 Ra-3 strategic cruise missile, as well as a new type of anti-aircraft missile called the Pyoliji-1-2. Hwasal-1 Ra-3. is a strategic cruise missile developed by North Korea. It is designed to carry a “super-large" warhead and can likely. strike targets across South Korea and Japan, 23. Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) prequalified a new oral cholera vaccine called Euvichol-S, manufactured by EuBiologics Co., Ltd. in South Korea. The we has a similar efficacy to existing cholera vaccines but features a simplified formulation that allows for faster and more cost-effective production. 24, Mount Ruang, a remote volcano located in Indonesia's North Sulawesi region, erupted recently, sending a plume of ash 400 meters (1,312 feet) above the peak. This eruption followed several others, which forced thousands of residents to evacuate as molten rocks rained down on their villages. The volcano startedExamveda Step Ahead With Your Career erupting stirring a mix of lava, ash columns, and volcanic lightning. 25. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has expressed disappointment and criticism towards Moderna Inc.'s decision to reconsider its plans for building a $500 million vaccine manufacturing facility in Kenya. Moderna, known for its COVID-19 vaceine, had announced the investment in October 2021 to support the production of its mRNA vaccine portfolio in Africa. 26. The U.S. Department of State has announced the commencement of planning for the withdrawal of approximately 1,000 American troops from Niger. This decision marks a significant shift in USS. foreign policy and military strategy in Attica, particularly in the Sahel region, a hotspot of extremist act and geopolitical competition. 27. On 20" April 2024, Nepal hosted its first International Rainbow Tourism Conference in Kathmandu, with an objective to promote the country as a safe and inclusive destination for LGBT tourists. This conference was organized by the NGO Mayako Pahichan Nepal in collaboration with the Nepal Tourism Board. 28. The government of Israel has launched a new fund called Yozma 2.0 to encourage institutional investors, such as insurance companies and pension funds, to increase their investments in high-tech companies. The fund aims to diversify the sources of funding for Israel's tech sector, which plays a crucial role in the country's economy. 29, European Union has recently introduced a revamped visa system specifically for Indian nationals. This change, effective from April 2024, fundamentally alters the dynamies of how Indians can approach travel within the Schengen area Traditionally, Schengen visas were provided typically with shorter validity periods, placing restrictions on frequent travellers. 30. The UK's Rwanda Scheme, officially initiated under = Prime = Minister Bor Johnson's administration in April 2022, is a controversial migration policy designed to deter unauthorized arrivals to the UK by rerouting asylum seekers to Rwanda. 31. Chinese President Xi Jinping has recently dissolved the Strategic Support Force (SSF), which was established in 2015, The SSF, once a cutting-edge unit integrating cyber and space warfare capabilities, were restructured into three separate entities: I. Information Support Force (ISP), 2. Aerospace Force, and 3. Cyber Force, 32. Armenia and Azerbaijan have placed the first border marker, following a bitter conflict over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Experts from both countries are working on demarcating their boundaries as part of the peace process. The two nations are working towards a peace treaty after Azerbaijan regained full control of the Nagorno- Karabakh region that had been under the control of ethnic Armenian forces since the 1990s 33. Recently, China launched the Shenzhou-18 spacecraft carrying a three-member crew to its orbiting Tiangong space station. The mission is part of China's ambitious space program, which aims to put astronauts on the moon by 2030. 34. Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced that its member states were close to agreeing on a package of amendments to the International Health Regulations (2005) aimed at better preparing the world for future public health emergencies. 35. The World Health Organization (WHO) unveiled an ambitious new operational strategy to accelerate progress against malaria and achieve the disease climination targets outlined in the Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016-2030. 36. Recently, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), announced the approval of a new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, The project, estimated to cost 128 billion AED ($34.85 billion), aims to create the world’s largest airport terminal. 37. Over the last 15 years, China's share in India’s imports of industrial goods has increased fromExamveda Step Ahead With Your Career 21% to 30%, according to a report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI). This growth in imports from China has outpaced India's overall import growth, with China's exports to India growing 2.3 times faster than India’s total imports from other countries. 38. India and the United Kingdom are engaged in discussions on sharing technical expertise and experience in maritime electric propulsion systems to meet the future requirements of Indian warships. The two countries are also exploring a training agreement to enhance cooperation among their armed forces. Defence 1. The government of India openly expressed strong criticism over China's latest endeavours of renaming selected places in Arunachal Pradesh India further reiterated that they were baseless attempts by the neighbouring country. From the Ministry of Extemal Affairs, a statement was released about Arunachal Pradesh being an important integral part of democratic India. 2. The Indian Army has received the first batch of 24 Russia-made Igla-S Man Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS) and 100 missiles as part of a larger deal that includes domestic production in India. This procurement aims to enhance the Army's Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) capabilities, particularly in high mountainous terrain along the northem border. 3. India is expanding its strategic ties with key regions by posting defence attaches in several countries, including Ethiopia, Mozambique, Ivory Coast, Philippines, Armenia, and Poland. This move comes amid renewed geopolitical rivalries and is part of India's broader policy initiative. 4, The Trishakti Corps of the Indian Army recently conducted a training exercise on Anti- Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) firing at a Super High-Altitude Area of 17,000 Feet in Sikkim. The exercise involved Missile Firing Detachments from Mechanized and Infantry Units of the entire Eastern Command, showcasing the capability to neutralize armoured threats with high lethality i treacherous mountainous terr 5. The government has placed a record Rs, 65,000 crore order for 97 LCA Mark 1A fighter jets with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the largest ever order for indigenous military hardware. The advanced version of the Tejas aircraft, LCA Mark 1A will replace the aging MiG fleet of the Indian Air Force. 6. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Army have successfully conducted trials of the Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) Weapon System at PFFR in Rajasthan. The MPATGM Weapon System was indigenously designed and developed by DRDO and consists of the MPATGM, the Man Portable Launcher, the Target Acquisition System (TAS), and the Fire Control Unit (FCU). 7. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is enhancing the security at 30 more of its air bases across the country with an advanced multi-layered, multi- sensor, hi-tech surveillance, and intrusion detection system. This move builds on the installation of the Integrated Perimeter Security System (IPSS) already in place at 23 high-priority air bases, of which the system is currently operational at 17-18 sites. 8. The Indian Navy inaugurated a state-of-the-art Submersible Platform for Acoustic Characterization and Evaluation (SPACE) in Kerala's Idukki, This platform was set up by the Naval Physical & Oceanographic Laboratory of DRDO to serve as a premier testing and evaluation hub for sonar systems used by the Indian Navy on various platforms such as ships, submarines, and helicopters. 9. An advanced stealth aircraft equipped with artificial intelligence (Al) technology played a crucial role in helping Israel detect and defend against a surprise missile attack launched by Iran.Examveda Step Ahead With Your Career The aireraft, known as "The Oron” or "Multi- Mission Airborne Reconnaissance and Surveillance System (MARS2)", is priced at approximately Rs. 8,200 crore and is one of the ‘most resourceful and compact stealth planes in the world. 10. The Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on research and development of technologies to address health issues faced by soldiers in difficult terrains. The MoU was signed by Lt Gen Daljit Singh, Director General of AFMS, and Prof S. Ganesh, Officiating Director of IIT Kanpur. 11, India will deliver the first batch of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines soon The delivery is part of a USD 375 million deal signed between the two nations in 2022 , marking India's first major defenee export, 12. The Indian Army is progressing two projects worth over Rs. 6,800 ctore to develop indigenous Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) systems. These shoulder-fired missile systems are being developed to counter aerial threats along the borders with China and Pakistan. The Army plans to procure over 500 launchers and around 3,000 missiles through these indigenous routes. 13. Lieutenant Commander Dilna K. and Lieutenant Commander Roopa A., two women officers of the Indian Navy, created history by successfully completing a nearly two-month transoceanic expedition on the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Tarini, They are the first women from India to achieve this remarkable feat The expedition, flagged off from Goa on 28" February 2024, concluded with Tarini's triumphant return to her base port on 21% April 2024. 14, India signed a USD 3.5 billion deal with Russia in October 2018 to acquire five units of the S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile systems. Russia has already supplied three units of the S- 400 missile systems to India as of April 2024. The remaining two regiments are set to be delivered by 2025, following some delays due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. 15. The Indian Air Foree (IAF) achieved a ignificant milestone by successfully test-firing an air-launched ballistic missile, known as ROCKS or Crystal Maze 2. The missile, capable of striking targets over 250 kilometers away, was launched from a Su-30 MKI fighter jet in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. 16. Recently, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) _ has developed the lightest bulletproof jacket in India The jacket, designed by the Defence Materials and Stores Research and Development Establishment (DMSRDE) in Kanpur, offers protection against the highest threat level 6 as per BIS 17051 standardsExamveda Step Ahead With Your Career Business, Economy & Bankin 1, India’s stock market capitalization is currently the fifth largest globally at $4.5 trillion, according to a report titled 'Recap 2024. Crystal Gaze 2025' by financial conglomerate Pantomath Group. The report predicts that India's market cap is likely to hit $10 trillion by 2030, driven by strong economic growth and favorable government policies. This would make India the third-largest economy in the world by 2027. 2. The Supreme Court is currently hearing arguments on whether state governments have the power to regulate and control the sale, distribution, pricing and other factors relating to ‘industrial’ alcohol. The case has been referred to a 9-judge Bench headed by Chief Justice of India D. Y. Chandrachud. 3. The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), which met recently, decided to keep the repo rate - the main policy rate = unchanged at 6.5 per cent and maintain the policy stance of ‘withdrawal of accommodation! Both the decisions were taken in a majority 5:1 voting by the six-member MPC, headed by RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das. 4. Recently, Indian Government has announced & Rs. 496 crore scheme (until 2025-26) to support pilot projects testing the viability of green hydrogen as a fuel for cars and heavy vehicles. The scheme, under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), aims to validate the technical feasibility, evaluate economic viability, and demonstrate safe operation of hydrogen- powered vehicles and refuelling stations. S. Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), a state-run shipbuilding facility in Kochi, has become the third Indian shipyard to enter into a Master Shipyard Repair Agreement (MRSA) with the U.S. Navy. This agreement enables CSL to repair U.S. Navy ships, following in the footsteps of Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDL). 6. The Special Window for Affordable and Mid- Income Housing (SWAMIH) Fund, backed by the central government, has played a crucial role in the completion of over 28,000 homes since its inception in 2019. The fund, managed by SBICap Ventures Ltd, has also contributed to the growth of various ancillary industries in the real estate and infrastructure sector. 7. HDFC Bank has become the first private sector bank to establish a branch in Kavaratti Island, part of the Union Territory of Lakshadweep. The bank aims to improve banking infrastructure in the region by offering a variety of services, with a focus on personal and digital banking 8. Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and wallets have become an integral part of our daily lives in recent years, thanks to the efforts of companies like Paytm, PhonePe, and Amazon, However, users have often complained about the limitation of using wallet money only through the web or mobile application provided by the prepaid payment instrument (PPI) issuer. 9. The central government is planning to establish dedicated testing labs for high-grade Kasturi cotton in six states as part of a push to promote the Indian cotton brand globally. Currently, the certification of Kasturi cotton is conducted through a limited number of NABL-accredited labs, and the government aims to enhance the quality standards and global acceptance of Indian textiles through this initiative. 10. Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has allowed Indian residents to hedge their gold price risk on recognised exchanges in the _ International Financial Services Centre (IFSC). Governor Shaktikanta Das announced the decision during the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting Where the repo rate was increased by 35 basis points to 6.25 percent. 11. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has achieved a significant milestone by entering, into a record number of 125 Adyance Pricing Agreements (APAs) with Indian taxpayers in the financial year 2023-24. This includes 86 Unilateral APAs (UAPAs) and 39 Bilateral AAS (BAPAS), marking the highest ever APA signingsExamveda Step Ahead With Your Career in any financial year since the launch of the APA, programme, 12. India has begun developing an indigenous bullet train that will surpass speeds of 250 kilometres per hour (kmph), making it faster than any existing train on the Indian Railways network In the global context, high-speed trains are defined as those capable of traveling at speeds exceeding 250 kmph, such as the French TGV and the Japanese Shinkansen. 13. India, despite being a major producer and consumer of pulses, has seen a significant increase in pulses imports in the 2023-24 fiscal year. Imports have nearly doubled to USD 3.74 billion, with shipments have surpassed 45 lakh tonnes, compared to 24.5 lakh tonnes in the previous year. 14. Paytm has received approval from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) to migrate its users to other banks for Unified Payments Interface (UPI) based payment services, The company has completed its integration with four major banks - State Bank of India, Yes Bank, HDFC Bank, and Axis Bank, and has started the process of transitioning its users to these new Payment System Provider (PSP) banks. 15. The Kerala Health Department is set to introduce detailed standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the outbreak investigation and control of at least cight infectious diseases as part of its One Health initiative. This marks the first time that such comprehensive guidelines are being developed at the state level on the One Health platform in India. 16. National Payments Corporation of India's (NPCI) wholly-owned subsidiary NPCI Bharat BillPay Limited (NBBL) has partnered with State Bank of India (SBI) to enable online recharge of SBI's National Common Mobility Cards (NCMC) through the Bharat BillPay platform. This move aims to provide a convenient and seamless top-up facility to NCMC users while avoiding long queues. 17. According to the latest report released, India’s foreign exchange reserves fell by $5.4 billion to $643.16 billion, This decline comes afier the reserves reached an all-time high of $648.56 billion, following a seven-week gaining streak. 18. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEB) has proposed a framework for price discovery of shares of listed Investment Companies (ICs) and Investment Holding Companies (IHCs) whose market price is trading at a significant discount to their book value. 19. As the number of satellites in Barth's orbit continues to grow at an unprecedented rate, experts are raising concems about the potential impact of space debris on the planet’s magnetic field and atmosphere. 20, Recently, the reports emerged from Hong Kong's Centre for Food Safety (CFS) and the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) indicating. the detection of ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen, in several Indian spice products. The affected products included specific batches of spices from popular Indian brands MDH and Everest, leading to recalls and a cessation of sales in affected markets. 21. The technology giant Google has recently made headlines due to its handling of employee protests against Project Nimbus, a lucrative cloud computing contract with the Israeli government. In April 2024, Google fired 20 employees, adding, to the previously dismissed 28 workers who participated in sit-in protests, 22, India's jewellery exports, particularly plain gold jewellery, experienced significant growth in the 2023-24 financial year (FY24) despite various challenges faced by the industry. The Gems & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GIEPC) reported a 61.72% increase in plain gold jewellery exports, reaching $6,792.24 million compared 10 $4,199.96 million in the previous year. 23. The Union govemment has approached the Supreme Court seeking clarification on whether it can allocate certain classes of spectrum through administrative process, rather than competitive auetions. The government argues that administrative allocation may be necessary in certain situations to address unanticipated priorities related to national security, publicExamveda Step Ahead With Your Career interest, or when auctions are not viable due to technical or economic reasons. 24. The Government of India, in collaboration with SBI Cards and Payment Services Ltd (SBI Card) and telecom operators, is developing an innovative solution to combat the growing threat of cyber fraud and phishing attacks involving stolen one-time passwords (OTPs). The Centre is testing a system that allows banks to track the registered address and geolocation of a customer and compare it with the location where the OTP is being delivered. 25, Government has set up a three-member committee of gynecologists to finalize a list of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs that will be available for sale at general stores without the need for a prescription. The committee, chaired by the Directorate General of Health Services Atul Goel, aims to complete the list within two weeks. 26. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) unveiled its Climate Strategy 2030 document on Earth Day to address India's growing need for green financing. The strategy aims to mobilize resources for climate change mitigation, adaptation, and_ resilience projects in the country. 27. According to the recent report, the Indian economy must grow at a rate of 8-10% per annum over the next decade to reap the benefits of its demographic dividend. The RBI emphasizes that India's developmental strategy for the coming decades should focus on maximizing the contribution of its young and growing labor force to the growth of gross value added (GVA). 28. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) directed Kotak Mahindra Bank to immediately stop onboarding new customers through online and mobile banking channels, The central bank also barred the private lender from issuing fresh credit cards, citing significant concerns observed during its IT examination of the bank for the years 2022 and 2023. 29. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued draft guidelines titled "Digital Lending - Transparency in Aggregation of Loan Products from Multiple Lenders” to promote transparency in the digital lending space. The guidelines propose that Lending Service Providers (LSPs) should provide borrowers with a digital view of all loan offers available from willing lenders with whom the LSP has arrangements. 30. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) launched a new Corporate Governance Charter for startups to provide guidance on good governance practices tailored to the unique needs of startups at different stages of growth. 31. The Indian Railways plans to set up an additional 200 Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals: (GCTs) to boost freight revenue, decongest rail networks, and enable faster passenger train movement. This expansion follows the successful implementation of the first 100 GCTS announced in the Union Budget 2022-23.Examveda Step Ahead With Your Career Science & Technolo; 1. The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KoSO) is a solar observatory located in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1899, it is one of the oldest solar observatories in the world and has been at the forefront of solar research for over 125 years The observatory, which celebrates its 125 years of existence, is currently operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (ITA), Bengaluru. 2. An international team of scientists, led by researchers. from the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad, has discovered strong evidence indicating the presence of ozone on Callisto, one of Jupiter's largest moons. 3. A research centre in Romania, part of the European Unions Infrastructure Extreme Light Infrastructure (ELI) project, has developed the worlds most powerful laser. The laser, operated by French company Thales Group, utilizes Nobel Prize-winning inventions and __ promises revolutionary advancements in various fields, including healthcare and space exploration 4. Recently, the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has issued a warning regarding the potential misuse of public charging ports found in locations such as cafes, hotels, and airports. The agency has alerted users about the risk of “juice jacking attacks," where cybercriminals can exploit’ USB ports to compromise devices when they are connected for charging. 5. Recently, OpenAL introduced a new AI model called Voice Engine, This model can replicate any voice in any language using a brief audio sample, allowing users to generate audio content in the same voice and manner of speaking as the original sample. Despite its potential applications, the company has not yet released Voice Engine for public use, reportedly due to safety concerns. 6. NASA is gearing up for the upcoming total solar eclipse when the moon's shadow will traverse a vast swath of North America. To capture this rare celestial event, the space agency will deploy two of its specialized WB-S7 jet planes, equipped with state-of-the-art instruments, to track the eclipse and conduct scientific studies of the Sun's outer atmosphere, known as. the corona. 7. Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), a subsidiary of Tata Sons, has successfully launched India’s first military-grade geospatial satellite built entirely by the private sector. The satellite, named TSAT-1A, was launched recently, in collaboration with Satellogic, marking a significant milestone in India's space industry. 8. In May 2021, the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) began its five-year survey to map the universe and study dark energy. Recent findings from the first year of DESI observations, which included light from 6 million galaxies up to 11 billion years old, hint at potential changes in dark energy density, challenging current theoretical models. 9. Scientis at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have developed a sustainable hydrogel to remove microplastics from water, addressing the global issue of plastic pollution. Microplastics particles less than 5 millimetres in size, are pervasive in oceans, soil, and even the air we breathe, posing a threat to human health 10. The India Meteorological Department has announced that India is likely to experience above-normal rainfall in the 2024 monsoon season, with La Nina conditions expected to set in by August-September. This prediction is based on, historical data showing above-normal rainfall during previous La Nina events following El Nino periods. 11, Union textiles ministry is working on developing fabric-based teeth to make dental implants more affordable. The plan involves using dental resins made from polyester to replace expensive ceramic, polymer, and composite implants, with research being conducted by institutions like AIMS and IITs, Fabric-based teeth are already used in some countries like Germany and the US to cut costs,Examveda Step Ahead With Your Career 12. Scientists from Germany and the U.K. have proposed a radical explanation for the discrepancy in measurements of the universe's expansion rate, known as the Hubble tension, The Hubble Constant, denoted as HO, is a fundamental parameter in cosmology that describes the current expansion rate of the Universe 13. A report has highlighted the ancient origins of Coffea arabica, the world’s most popular coffee species, through genome sequencing. The findings suggest that Arabica coffe developed over 6,00,000 years ago in the forests of Ethiopia via natural hybridization between two other coffee species, Coffea canephora and — Coffea eugenioides. This makes Arabica coffee significantly older than modern humans. 14. India is considering striking a deal with Nvidia, the US-based manufacturer of graphies processing units (GPUs), to source GPUs and offer them to local startups, researchers, and academic institutions at subsidized rates. This initiative is part of India’s Rs. 10,000 crore Artificial Intelligence Mission, which aims to boost the country's AI ecosystem and capabilities 15. Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has announced the launch of its new artificial intelligence (AI) assistant, Meta Al. Powered by the company's latest Al model, Llama 3, Meta Al is integrated into Meta's popular social media and messaging platforms, aiming to provide users with ahighly intelligent and free-to-use Al experience. 16. Microsoft's newly introduced VASA-I Al model represents a significant advancement in the field of generative artificial intelligence. This Al model has the capability to produce hyper-realistic talking faces from just a single portrait photo and a corresponding speech audio track. 17. The Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT-G), in collaboration with the Systematic Voters! Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) cell of Kamrup election district in Assam, has developed an innovative 3D printed dummy ballot unit, Unveiled at the IIT-G campus, this initiative aims to enhance voter awareness and participation, particularly among new voters and senior citizens, 18. On 24" April 2024, NASA has launched the Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3), marking an important moment in the utilization of solar power for space propulsion. A solar-powered spacecraft was deployed aboard Rocket Lab's Electron rocket from New Zealand. This spacceraft, powered by sunlight, aims to test the efficacy and potential of solar sails in space transportation. 19, The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to achieve another milestone in its prestigious Gaganyaan mission, India's first human spaceflight program. The second uncrewed test flight is planned. Two more uncrewed missions will take place in 2025. 20. Researchers from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) have developed a high-energy, high-power hybrid sodium-ion battery capable of charging in seconds. This breakthrough could potentially revolutionize the energy storage industry and provide a viable altemative to lithium-ion batteries. 21. Microsoft has unveiled Phi-3-mini, the smallest model in its new Phi-3 family of open AT models. Phi-3-mini, with just 3.8 billion parameters, is claimed to be the most capable and. cost-effective small language model (SLM) available, Despite its small size, it outperforms models twice its size across various benchmarks in language, reasoning, coding, and math, 22. Scientists have detected the most distant- known instance of a giant flare from a magnetar, a type of neutron star with immensely strong magnetic fields, residing in the Messier 82 (M82) galaxy, also known as the "Cigar Galaxy.” The flare, a surge of gamma rays, released an amount of energy equivalent to 10,000 years of our sun's output in just a tenth of a second 23, India is the country being surrounded by the Indian Ocean, plays a critical role in understanding ocean currents and their impact on weather and climate prediction. A recent study by